Intramural gastric metastasis: A rare presentation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Intramural gastric metastasis of the esophageal carcinoma, excluding the direct extension of primary neoplasm, is rare. However, intramural metastasis to the esophagus is commoner than this. These are more common in squamous cell carcinoma variant. This signifies a poor prognosis. It is due to the spread of pathology through the intramural lymphatic channels. Sometimes the metastatic lesion is more extensive in volume than the primary. This is more often diagnosed on histopathology in postoperative specimens. We share our imaging experience with surface esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with giant intramural gastric metastasis infiltrating the liver in a 39-year-old male. Due to its rarity, and secondary lesion being more extensive than the primary leads to misinterpretation and wrong diagnosis. Knowledge of this rare phenomenon can prevent misdiagnosis, fasten the imaging workup, and ultimately improve the patient's survival.

Keywords

• lymphatic spread of esophageal neoplasm
• mucosal oesophageal carcinoma
• secondary gastric neoplasm
• submucosal tumor of the stomach